Bill: SB 1931, 84(R) - 2015
Committee
Senate State Affairs
Vote Recommendation
| Vote Recommendation |
Economic Freedom |
Property Rights |
Personal Responsibility |
Limited Government |
Individual Liberty |
| Yes |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Positive |
Neutral |
Author(s)
Sylvia Garcia
Bill Caption
Relating to the appointment of an attorney ad litem for a parent in certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship.
Fiscal Notes
No significant fiscal implication anticipated.
Bill Analysis
SB 1931 would make the appropriate amendments to require the court notify the parent or parents in legal suits concerning the parent-child relationship of their right to an attorney, and in case of indigence, the right to an attorney appointed ad litem. The court would be able to appoint a temporary attorney ad litem from the time the court issues a temporary restraining order or attachment of the child until the full adversary hearing and the determination of indigence.
Vote Recommendation Notes
Though there are debates over the meaning of 'right to counsel' in the Sixth Amendment of the Constitution, the fact remains that the Supreme Court has decided over the years that if a person cannot afford an attorney, then the government shall appoint one for them. Because this legislation supports this constitutional function of government in the proper size and scope, we support SB 1931.
